Israel Unveils New Hiking Trails at Timna Park

As Israel marks the High Holidays and the hiking season begins, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI) and Timna Park announce the inauguration of newly marked hiking trails, injecting fresh energy into one of the country’s most striking natural reserves.

Nestled in the southern Arava near Eilat, Timna Park is often described as Israel’s desert crown jewel—a surreal landscape of copper-hued cliffs, rare rock formations, ancient mines, and remarkable archaeological discoveries. Among its celebrated treasures is the Purple Cloth, a rare textile dating to the era of King David and King Solomon, offering a tangible link to the region’s biblical past. The newly completed trail project, developed in partnership with SPNI and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, introduces circular routes suitable for families and more demanding paths for seasoned trekkers, including the 24-kilometre “Around Timna” trail that encircles the park’s most iconic viewpoints.

“The story of Timna Park, told through discoveries like the Purple Cloth, links nature with Israel’s deep heritage,” commented Sagi Raz, Chief Executive of Timna Park. “With these new trails, we invite everyone—from soldiers to students to visiting travellers—to experience the magic of the Arava Desert and rediscover the beauty of our land.”

A Hiker’s Paradise Reimagined A new trail map now highlights all marked paths, their corresponding difficulty levels, and key points of interest. Itzik Ben-Dov, Trail Marking Co-ordinator at SPNI, explained that the project’s aim was to create a more flexible and environmentally sensitive trail system, offering short scenic loops, long-distance routes, and improved connectivity between existing trails, all while minimising vehicle usage and environmental impact. “Every decision was made with conservation in mind,” Ben-Dov said. “Visitors can now enjoy the perfect balance between accessibility and preservation, whether they’re here for a casual family outing or a challenging desert hike.”

Beyond Hiking: A Haven for Cyclists and Nature Lovers Timna Park is also a cycling hotspot, with nearly 70 km of dedicated cycling trails developed in collaboration with the Eilot Economic Company, Israel Ministry of Tourism, and the Jewish National Fund. Local guide Ron Bernstein (“Ranger Ron”) noted that several new circular routes now begin at Copper Lake, passing natural icons such as the ‘Sphinx’ and Solomon’s Pillars. Two new ascent routes lead up to Mount Timna, while other additions include the ‘Mushroom and a Half’ and Nahal Mangan circuits, each weaving together Timna’s unique geology, history, and desert tranquillity.

“We aimed to connect every corner of the park with continuous, circular experiences,” Bernstein remarked. “Now, visitors can explore Timna’s vast landscapes, from ancient copper mines to panoramic peaks, without retracing their steps.”

Nature, Heritage, and Sustainability in Harmony For decades, the Israel Trails Committee, led by SPNI, has worked to make Israel’s natural beauty accessible through well-marked and safe routes. Shavit Saar Weksler, Director of the Committee, described Timna’s renewed trail system as part of a national effort to create sustainable, family-friendly hiking experiences. “Trail marking isn’t just navigation; it’s our way of connecting people to the landscape,” Weksler said. “Our aim is for every visitor, whether from Israel or abroad, to find trails that match their interests and discover the country’s outstanding natural and cultural richness.”

Echoing the sentiment, Golan Reeder, Director of the Southern Arava Region at the Nature and Parks Authority, added that the year-long planning process prioritised both visitor safety and ecosystem protection. “Unused trails were removed, circular paths added, and every route was designed to tell a story—geological, archaeological, or historical—while preserving the delicate desert ecosystem,” he said.

For Indian Travellers With the growing number of Indian travellers exploring Israel beyond the holy and historic, Timna Park offers a rare opportunity to combine adventure, nature, and culture in one destination. Whether it’s a family-friendly desert stroll, a cycling expedition, or a photography-filled day trip from Eilat, the park’s new trails promise an unforgettable glimpse into Israel’s ancient desert soul.